My Girl Olivia

This morning was just Olivia and myself. Martin is in bed quite sick, Morgan is in bed quite sick, and Christian is still sleeping. So Liv and I had the early morning to ourselves and it was wonderful. She is an amazing kid and I couldn't be more proud of her - couldn't be happier to be her mom.
As she was waking up this morning and I was still knocked out, I woke up to Martin (again, SICK in bed), asking her if she'd take the garbage can out to the curb before the garbage man got here. Her response was one of no problem, no big deal, "sure, Dad". I was quite impressed by it because she wasn't dressed yet and it is COLD and WET outside. But she didn't grumble about it - just went on her way.
I felt the need to get up and help her get ready this morning otherwise she would've been the only one up in this house. How sad would THAT be?
So I go downstairs, out to the garage, pop my head outside to see her pulling the garbage can back in. ??? She sees me and almost cries. Apparently when I had parked the car last, I parked it a bit too close to the gate and she couldn't open the gate wide enough to get the garbage can through!!!! She was near tears being so cold!!! Poor little angel. Bless her dear little heart for being so willing to help. (at that point I took over, moved the car, took out the trash...) I come back in the house and she - get this - thanks ME!!!!!!! She thanks me. What an angel.
I don't know what I would do without my Olivia. She simply is amazing. The way she helps around the house, the way she helps with her 2 year old brother... she is my lifesaver. I have her do the kitchen daily. Dishes, counters, sweeping the floor. And now at 11 years old, she is in the beginning stages of babysitting Christian. I can leave and know he's in good hands. She feeds him, changes diapers (only pee pee diapers at this point), puts him down for naps. Could I be more lucky???
I just felt it appropriate to post about my girl and how much I love her, and enjoy being around her, and truly appreciate all her hard work.
AND with that appreciation, we are planning a trip to the Hannah Montana Concert/Movie this afternoon. She's a bit excited. ;)